Walking down the aisles of a store from January to mid-February is a bombardment of Valentines gifts, colors, and candies. Tucked away in the aisle is also a piece of nostalgia… Sweethearts. The chalky hard candies with phrases from “Call Me” to “Be Mine” (or the newer additions like “Text Me”) bring back sweet childhood memories.

The candies have evolved quite a bit from the original form. The Smithsonian describes that the candy maker Necco created a version of the current treat when the company started in 1847. It started out as a scalloped shell with a paper fortune in the middle. The red writing was added 14 years later in 1861 by the founder’s brother who invented a machine that could press red vegetable dye into the candy. The shape went through many different forms before settling into its heart shaped delight in the early 1900’s. Even though they have made adjustments to the phrases and flavors, Sweethearts still hold a sentimental place in my Valentines memories. Continue reading “Sweethearts Wreath” →